SCU’s 2024 Panetta Institute Congressional Intern

Ariana Yamasaki ’25, a political science and philosophy double major, represented Santa Clara University for the 2024 cycle of the Panetta Institute for Public Policy Congressional Internship Program.

Ariana Yamasaki ’25 spent the fall of her senior year in Washington, D.C. As one of 20 fellows selected from across California, Ariana attended a two-week lecture series at the Panetta Institute in Monterey. These lectures were conducted by Secretary Leon Panetta ’60 J.D. and featured seasoned career professionals and leaders. The topics of discussion ranged from national security and climate change to congressional spending power—all with an emphasis on developing bipartisan leadership.

In D.C., Ariana served in the Office of Congressman John Garamendi, who represents California’s 8th Congressional District. In her day-to-day work, she assisted senior staffers, attended hearings and briefings, and worked on legislative issues, focusing on maritime security, transportation, and recognition of Rosie the Riveters. Outside of the office, she attended additional lectures, including one at the State Department and another on the House floor.

Ariana was honored to represent Santa Clara University and stated, “I am unendingly grateful to Secretary Panetta, CEO Panetta, the Institute, and Santa Clara University for the experience of a lifetime. The program fostered bipartisan engagement with topics central to our democracy, and it was a pleasure learning from experts in their fields. I am thankful for my fellow interns and will treasure our memories together. It was an honor serving our democracy, and I cannot thank the Panettas enough for their dedication to public service and their commitment to developing bipartisan leadership.”

Ariana is currently interning for Congressman Ro Khanna and looks forward to a career in public service following graduation.

Learn more about the Panetta Institute Congressional Internship Program.